TIMMINS, ON, Aug. 13, 2012 /CNW/ - Thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada, residents of Timmins now have a lasting reminder of the 100th anniversary of their city and the contribution of mining to its establishment. The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced support for the Porcupine Prospectors and Developers Association's for the 2012 Timmins Centennial Legacy Project.
To celebrate the city's 100th anniversary, three bronze sculptures were erected in front of the Timmins Museum. The art pieces pay tribute to three mining prospectors—Sandy McIntyre, Jack Wilson, and Benny Hollinger. The discoveries of these three prospectors launched the Great 1909 Porcupine Gold Rush, which eventually led to the founding of Timmins in 1912.
"This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada's 150th birthday in 2017," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to invest in projects that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, let us continue to celebrate all of the things that make Canada the united, prosperous, and free country we are today."
"This centennial commemoration of these mining pioneers would not be possible without funding from the Government of Canada, along with support from the municipal and provincial governments, local industry, and many dedicated volunteers," said Dean Rogers, President of the Porcupine Prospectors and Developers Association. "This support has allowed us to honour our past in a tangible way, while leaving a legacy for our future generations. We are so pleased that the project is now complete, and that the bronze sculptures are available for everyone to see and appreciate."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $89,643 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
SOURCE: Canadian Heritage
For more information (media only), please contact:
Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]
(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)
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